Events By Danyelle

Laura & Brian's Wedding - August 13, 2011

2011-09-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to take a minute to blog about the beautiful wedding on a private family farm in Hope, New Jersey. Laura and Brian are a lovely couple!

Below is a picture I snapped during set up of the tented reception space. So much attention to detail and thought went into this wedding. Since it was a private, family owned space and not a full service reception facility, the family spent months ensuring that the property was ready for such a joyous affair. The vendors that helped to make the day fabulous included:

DJ - Eclipse Entertainment, West Orange, New Jersey
Flowers - A Velvet Rose, North Arlington, New Jersey
Photography - Inbal Sivan, Brooklyn, New York
Hair - Pink Comb Salon, Nutley, New Jersey
Make Up - Gary Politano, Belleville, New Jersey
Rentals - Alan Party & Tent Rentals and Party Rental LTD

We Won the 2011 WeddingWire Bride's Choice Award!

2011-02-09T20:12:00.000-08:00

North Arlington, NJ – February 9, 2011 - WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce Events By Danyelle LLC has been selected to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 for Wedding Planners!

Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation.

Events By Danyelle stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud Events By Danyelle for their professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.”

We are happy to announce that Events By Danyelle is among the very best Wedding Planners within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for nominating us to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today at http://www.weddingwire.com/biz/events-by-danyelle-north-arlington/afb5c60e82e1348d.html.

For more information on the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire.com, the nation's leading technology company serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 local wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives local businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. Businesses that join the WeddingWire Network appear on WeddingWire.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), ProjectWedding.com and Weddingbee.com (both part of eHarmony), and Celebrations.com (part of the 1-800-Flowers family of brands, NASDAQ: FLWS).

Shannon Kelly & Michael Thompson Wedding June 19, 2010

2010-07-20T20:37:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of working with the fabulous Mr. and Mrs. Michael & Shannon Thompson. Their wedding ceremony and reception took place at the elegant banquet facility, The Imperia, located in Somerset, New Jersey. The day was captured by New Jersey Wedding Photographers Scott and Janice of Nyla Photography. The pictures are amazing!

The additional vendors that made the day so magical included:

Monday Morning Flowers located in Princeton, New Jersey
Best of Both Worlds Entertainment Company
New Jersey Videographers of Creative Video Editing, Michael and his lovely wife. Check out the Wedding Day Movie Trailer by clicking here!

Congratulations Shannon & Michael! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness and love!

Bridal Show - This Saturday, June 26

2010-06-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

I will be exhibiting this Saturday, June 26 at the Grand Re-Opening of the Savvi Formalwear store located at 8746 Belair Road, Nottingham, Maryland.

Come and check out the special promotions that Ripken Stadium is offering as well as the other fabulous vendors. My booth will feature "Ask the Wedding Consultant" so get your wedding questions answered by a professional!

See you on Saturday!

Ripken Stadium for Your Wedding!

2010-06-21T21:55:00.000-07:00

As the new Wedding Consultant for Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen, Maryland (http://www.ripkenstadium.com/), I highly recommend Ripken Stadium for your wedding ceremony, reception or any event!

The BMW of Bel Air Club Level at the stadium is a fantastic space for your wedding reception. The elegant Club Level has breath taking views of the baseball field and skyline. Your reception is totally personalized by being able to display a picture montage on the Jumbotron in Centerfield and onto the screens in the Club Level. The wedding packages are truly customized to suit your every wish for ceremonies, rehearsal dinners, receptions and bridal showers. You can choose from a variety of food, beverage, linen and rental options to meet your budget and wedding day style. Want to add even more excitement to wedding day - FIREWORKS - can be set off behind the outfield!

Whatever your wedding day dreams are, I can make them happen at Ripken Stadium!

You don't have to be a baseball fan to truly appreciated this great facility. Email me today to schedule a tour and learn more about having your wedding at Ripken Stadium - weddings@ripkenbaseball.com!

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara for Your Wedding!

2010-04-27T17:52:00.000-07:00

If you're thinking about a West Coast wedding, look no further than the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara (http://www.fourseasons.com/santabarbara/)

The hotel is a reborn Spanish Colonial treasure whose red roof tiles, ivory adobe and graceful archways grace Butterfly Beach in exclusive Montecito.

This location serves as a gracious, oceanfront setting for fairy-tale weddings. Four Seasons marries historic California's glory with legendary service – a luminous hacienda with secluded guest cottages, atmospheric function spaces and picturesque gardens.

The resort offers several different indoor and outdoor spaces for your ceremony and reception. In order to make wedding planning easier, they offer Lunch and Dinner wedding packages as well as work with you to create your ultimate wedding menu and cake. All of your wedding day beauty can be handled by their on site spa as well as hair and make up services at the Kevin Charles Salon.

Four Seasons provides world class service and will do the same on wedding day just for you!

Visit their website (http://www.fourseasons.com/santabarbara/weddings/) to start planning your West Coast wedding today!

Vera Wang Gown at David's Bridal Prices

2010-04-21T17:04:00.001-07:00

When I'm in my car, I'm usually listening to Cosmo Radio (http://www.sirius.com/cosmoradio). Today one of the "7 Things You Need to Know Before You Go" included a story about Vera Wang creating a new budget friendly line of bridal gowns for David's Bridal.

I said out loud in the car to myself "No Way?!?"

Vera Wang's Luxe Collection starts at $6,000, with some dresses costing as much as $12,000 or more. Could she be bringing her bridal fashion goddess talents to a broader audience of brides that dream of a Vera Wang gown but did not want to spend such a large chunk of their wedding budget on their gown?

After some additional online research and a phone call to my contact at the Madison Avenue Flagship Salon, I found out that it's true!

Vera Wang and David’s Bridal announced an exclusive partnership yesterday to launch a new bridal collection. The collection will initially consist of gowns and accessories for the bride and will be available in the US in early Spring 2011. The gowns will be consistent with David’s Bridal’s price points, ranging in price from $600 to $1500.

Ladies - if you're not getting married until the later part of 2011 or 2012, you may want to move your "Select Wedding Gown" task on your checklist out a few weeks and check out this collection. I'm certain that it will have all of the elegance, style and detail of the Vera Wang Luxe line but at a budget friendly price.

Cake Shop Moving Into the Neighborhood

2010-04-18T16:56:00.000-07:00

Less than one block from the Events By Danyelle home base, Design Cakes is moving in. I snapped the photo below with my BlackBerry when I was out for a run. Design Cakes (http://www.designcakes.com/) specializes in speciality custom cakes, wedding cakes and cup cakes. The shop is currently under construction. Below is one of their beautiful wedding cakes and illustrates why they were a 2010 The Knot Best of Weddings selection.

Wedding Inspiration - Ghosts of Girlfriends Past

2010-04-17T14:06:00.001-07:00

I love any movie that has any wedding element in it. I just watched Ghosts of Girlfriends Past and loved a few items that you could incorporate into your wedding.

Reception Location - Ghosts of Girlfriends Past was primarily filmed in at the The Great House a Castle Hill on The Crane Estate in Ipswich, Massachusetts (http://www.thetrustees.org/crane-estate/castle-hill/). You could have your wedding there!

Cake - The Yum Bunnies Cakery in Belmot, Massachusetts created the amazing cake for the movie. To have them bake your wedding cake check them out at http://yumbunnies.com/index.html.

Best Ways to Become a Sun Kissed Bride!

2010-04-16T09:17:00.000-07:00

As we enter the peak wedding season, one thing that may be on your wedding beauty to-do-list is tanning. I strongly encourage you to NOT enter the tanning beds to achieve your tan, but rely on the great topical products that are on the market today.

You may think that using a tanning bed in order to prepare for your wedding is OK for this "one time special occasion" but beware. Tanning beds are labeled as carcinogens and the use of tanning beds increases the risk of melanoma of the skin by 75% when use starts before the age of 30.

I am guilty of using tanning beds - to tan for prom, spring break and my wedding. Then after listening to "Cocktails with Patrick" on Cosmo Radio (Sirius Channel 111 and XM 162), I was convinced to never enter a tanning bed again. I am urging you to do the same. To learn more about the dangers of tanning check out Cosmopolitan.com: http://www.cosmopolitan.com/celebrity/news/tanning-bed-control-act

Let me know say that the skin tone that you were born with is beautiful, embrace it! However, if you maintain the urge to become darker, I have some recommendations below at all price points. Keep in mind that a single tanning bed use would cost about $10 and that does not include the cost of lotion, eye protection and not to mention the potential future health costs (priceless!). Think of all of the money you will save by going the no tanning bed route.

1) My most preferred option of sunless tanning is going into a spa or salon and having someone apply the sunless tanning lotion all over your body or airbrush you. They usually start by exfoliating your skin first. This will ensure that you skin is in perfect, even condition to become tanned. This process can cost over $100 but you are assured an even tan (they don't miss any spots) that will last for about 5 days.

2) My next option would be the spray tan booths such as the Mystic Tan. With this technology you strip down, enter into a booth and then are sprayed with a sunless tanning formula. Some booths have dryers that help you dry prior to putting your cloths back on. The spray booth can be tricky as spots such as your elbows and knees may become darker, the spray may form streaks on your legs and I never thought that my feet ever looked right (more dirty than tan). Ultimately, it did create an all over body tan that would last for about 3 days.

3) A final option is to apply at home. There are many quality sunless tanning products for home use on the market today. My favorites are Clarins Self Tanning Gel ($35) and Victoria's Secret Sunkissed Bronze Instant Self Tan Lotion with Tint ($12).

I recommend using a separate product for your face such as Clarins Liquid Bronze Self-Tanning for Face and Decollete ($32.50).

Tips for the best application include exfoliate in the shower prior to use, have your fiance apply the lotion to your back and other hard to reach areas and wash your hands after use. I also recommend applying at night, throw on your robe while you dry then head to bed. In the morning you can then shower to get rid of some of the distinct odor that sunless tanning lotions have. (They have improved over the years, but they still have a distinct smell).

With so many alternatives to the tanning bed, why put your health and skin at risk! Become sun kissed without the sun or tanning bed bulbs!

PADDYWAX

2010-04-14T19:04:00.000-07:00

A great gift for a bridesmaid or even for a bride at her bridal shower is a nice candle (or collection of candles) that will burn for hours and smell amazing. On my current favorite's list are candles are from PADDYWAX (http://www.paddywax.com/). Check them out online for yourself!

Don't Forget About the Cake!

2010-04-11T13:22:00.000-07:00

In many banquet facilities in New Jersey, the cake can be included as part of your reception food and beverage package. Sometimes the facility has an in house baker and other times, they utilize an outside bakery. What ever the case may be, follow the Three (3) Ts to Your Ideal Wedding Cake:

1) Talk to the actual baker of your cake or an agent of the bakery that really knows their cakes. Nothing is worse than meeting with a banquet sales manager who doesn't know the difference between a sugar flower and a real flower or fondant and butter cream.

2) Taste the cake flavors and filling to ensure that you love how your wedding cake will taste!

3) Tell the baker about how you want your wedding cake to look. Look through their portfolio of cakes to see if they've created something similar to your vision in the past. Build off of the visual image from the portfolio and bring a pictures of your ideas to your meeting. Ensure that prior to ending your meeting everything has been written down and you are completely happy with the plan of how your cake will look.

The next time you'll see your cake is on wedding day - when your vision is right there in front of you - ready for the first cut and bite!

My favorite bakery in New Jersey is The Pink Cake Box (http://www.pinkcakebox.com/). Below is one of their amazing creations:

IN: Outsource Your Wedding OUT: DIY Wedding

2010-04-08T13:26:00.001-07:00

Brides will go the Do-It-Yourself (DIY) route for different reasons - save money, love of crafting or to have complete control. However, a cost associated with DIY projects that is not accounted for is your TIME. You don't write yourself a check for the hours that you spend printing invitations, cutting out escort cards, assembling your iPOD play list or baking cookies to give to guests as favors. Your time is precious and valuable. A popular strategy in business today is outsourcing. Why not do the same for your wedding?

Outsource it all! Your wedding day is a day in your life where you will be celebrated for the important milestone you have reached in your life and the next step that you will proceed to with your groom. Enjoy the process of being engaged and planning and hire professionals.

For example, a popular DIY task is invitations. There are so many designers and stationery companies that are affordable, look amazing and you will not have to worry about the paper getting jammed in your printer or running out of ink. An MSN article recommends www.minted.com.

Another popular DIY task is to make your own floral centerpieces. My personal opinion is that you should stay away from this but if you want to do this ensure to do a "test run" a few weeks prior to the wedding. Place a small order from the online floral company and ensure they arrive within your specified shipping time frame and look nice. Another option would be to order from a local florist. Practice making your arrangement then teach your bridesmaid or a relative so you don't have to assemble the centerpieces the night before your wedding. The most efficient way to outsource this task would be to hire a floral designer to create your arrangements, even simple ones. On wedding day, you'll walk into your reception and be very happy with the results.

Hire the pros and you will find yourself as one of the least stressed, happiest brides around!

What the Bridal Magazines Say vs. What Events By Danyelle Says

2010-04-06T18:47:00.000-07:00

Page 118 of the April 2010 issue of Brides Magazine (www.bridesmag.com) has the headline "iPOD YOUR WEDDING." The article feeds on the fact that brides want to get the most value for their weddings, utilizing every penny on what they feel will make their weddings perfect and saving where they can. One way to cut cost, at least $1,000 or so as the article indicates, would be to create a reception play list on your iPOD, connect it to the reception venue's sound system and dance all night long to the tunes.

Events By Danyelle says please don't iPOD your wedding - at least hire a deejay. Deejays tend to be less expensive than bands. After hiring the deejay, if you have the desire to create your ultimate wedding play list, you can do this. Provide the list to your deejay at least 3 weeks prior to your wedding day. Also, if the deejay does not have a requested song in his music library, you can provide him with a CD.

The deejay’s role is not only to play music and to keep the party going, but the deejay is also there to serve as the master of ceremonies. There are several key parts of the reception such as the bridal party entrance, toasts and cake cutting where you'll want someone running the show. The deejay will do this for you - an iPOD cannot.

Finally, as I was finishing my blog post, in my inbox I received my New Jersey Bride’s Magazine weekly newsletter, The Aisle. One of the feature articles was “Don’t Even Think About an iPod.” Please read the article to gain additional insight from brides and entertainment professionals on the advantages of leaving the iPod at home on wedding day.

Best Wishes!

(http://www.newjerseybride.com/articles/dont-even-think-about-an-ipod?utm_source=NJ+Bride&utm_campaign=db7fb2e7a1-the_aisle_issue27_4_5_10&utm_medium=email).

Brides Against Breast Cancer

2010-04-05T11:07:00.000-07:00

What are you suppose to do with your wedding gown after wedding day - the gown that you dreamed of for years, the gown that made you feel like a princess, the gown that you married your husband in? I know that during the wedding planning process you probably became attached to your gown and you may want to keep it after wedding day in hopes that maybe your daughter will wear it someday or that you can pull it out every year on your anniversary.

Let's think about this rationally for a moment.

How many brides out there wore their mother's wedding gown or really wanted to? Do I hear crickets?!? I have yet to have a client or know a bride that has done this.

Next, do you really need to keep another large box with all of the other large boxes that contain stuff that you never use?

Another option, would be to "trash the dress" which is a trend where brides ruin their dresses (usually with a photographer capturing the moment) by jumping into the ocean, painting it or setting it on fire.

I have a better option - donating it to a good cause! Brides Against Breast Cancer is a way for Making Memories (www.makingmemories.org) to raise money in order to grant wishes for metastatic breast cancer patients, while continuing to support, educate and increase resource awareness.

To help Brides Against Breast Cancer, you just need to donate your wedding gown. Details can be found at http://bridesagainstbreastcancer.org/. The funds from the re-sale of your dress at one of the "Nationwide Tour of Gowns" sales go to making the wishes of breast cancer patients come true.

You are actually making two dreams come true - one of a bride who gets your gorgeous gown and the dream of a cancer patient!

Entertainment for Your Wedding or Event

2010-03-25T22:33:00.001-07:00

If you're getting married or hosting an event in the Philadelphia, New Jersey or New York areas look to CTO Artists (http://www.cto.com/) for all of your entertainment needs! They also travel so no destination is too far.

They offer a variety of talented bands and DJs to ensure that the look, music and style match the feel of the event that you want to create!

I recently worked with a client to book CTO Grand Central. Click the play button below to check them out:

Wedding Theme Inspiration - Avatar

2010-03-24T20:56:00.000-07:00

I have heard some brides say that their wedding already has a theme and that it is simply the "wedding" theme. However, I think most brides are more creative in their planning and want a unique wedding experience that marries their style with an interesting theme.

For theme inspiration, let's turn to the movies. Think about the movie Avatar. Now, you don't need to go all out and request that your bridesmaids look like the Na'vi, but you can pull from the awesome colors and vegetation from the Pandora landscape.

Incorporate the colors into your decor, invitations, centerpieces - any aspect of your wedding. You can subtly incorporate the theme or go all out and clearly indicate to guests that you were inspired by Avatar. It's up to you.

Look to any of your favorite movies for inspiration!

Happy Planning!

$100,000 Ultimate Wedding Contest from The Knot

2010-03-04T09:37:00.000-08:00

Brides - Check out the contest that The Knot is running to win a $100,000 wedding!

https://email.theknot.com/servlet/formlink/f?sghlQTDCC

Mr. Pen Chose a Venue

2010-02-26T18:54:00.000-08:00

Mr. Pen selected the Adventure Aquarium (http://www.adventureaquarium.com/) to host his event. The aquarium is located on the waterfront in Camden, NJ with spectacular views of Philadelphia.

The space is spectacular and will be so easy to find inspiration from the space to incorporate into the design for the event.

We're on to selecting the band now. The band that will most likely be selected is CTO Grand Central (http://www.cto.com/music_bands.cfm?TID=120&ID=194). They are a fun, hip Philadelphia based band. Also, the Music Consultant that I've been working with has been amazing. Angelina is so easy to speak with and has been so helpful during the planning process.

A great tip for planners and clients - find vendors that you like! There are so many options out there - don't settle for someone that you're not super comfortable working with during the planning process.

Baby Shower - Diaper Cake

2010-02-06T17:19:00.000-08:00

A great gift for the new mom-to-be is a diaper cake and they are truly special when you create a unique one just for her.

To make the cake in the image above you will need the following supplies:

1 - 16" round cake board
70 - Pampers Swaddlers for New Baby 12-18 lb
Rubber Bands
2 inch wide ribbon
Fun baby gifts - plush toys, rattles, pacifiers, booties, wash cloths, bibs - almost anything can be added to the cake.
1 bottle of Johnson & Johnson Baby Shampoo (20 oz)
Faux flowers for decoration
2 - 12" wooden dowels

Step 1: Roll the diapers. Take one diaper and roll from the top down tightly - secure roll with a small rubber band. Create about 70 rolls.

Step 2: Create the cake tiers. To create the first tier, place a large rubber band around a 20 oz bottle of baby shampoo. Encircle the bottle with approximately 7 rolled diapers continue to add layers for a total of about 40 diapers on the bottom tier. For the second tier, place one diaper in the center and again assemble about 23 diapers in layers around it. For the top tier, place one diaper in the center and assemble about 6 diapers in a single layer around it.

Step 3: Stack the 3 tiers on the cardboard cake base. Place the two dowel rods through the layers to secure them together.

Step 4: Strengthen the 3 tiers more by tying the 2 inch ribbon all around it. Wide ribbon also makes the arrangement pretty.

Step 5: For EBD cakes, I like to focus on a theme and a color. The cake in the picture is for a baby girl so we went with pink ribbon and a cute jungle theme. We secured the monkey with ribbon as the cake topper and embellised the cake and base with faux flowers.

Step 6: Embellish with additional baby necessities such as soft toy and bath items. Ribbons, flowers, coupons, creams and cards are some examples of decorative items that can be used for this purpose.

Events By Danyelle can create a custom diaper cake for the expecting mom in your life - just contact us!

Wedding How To - Feathers

2010-02-06T13:07:00.001-08:00

Feathers are a classy, luxe touch to your wedding.

Do - incorporate them into your hair, bouquets and centerpieces. White or black feathers create the most elegant look. Please find several ideas for how to incorporate feathers into your wedding from the Hostess with the Mostess blog (http://www.hostessblog.com/2008/09/fabulous-feathers/).

One additional tip - I think that all feather centerpieces are OK but the feathers are more dramatic when incorporated into a floral centerpiece.

Don't - put them everywhere (i.e. cake, hanging from the ceiling) and don't use a lot of different colort. Choosing one bold color like hot pink is OK but using multiple colors creates a mardi gras look that you may not be going for.

I respect David Tutera and all of his designs - he is fantastic. However, on his hit We TV Show - My Fair Wedding - he created a Mummer themed wedding. In case you didn't know, Mummbers are costumed entertainers welcoming in the New Year. On New Year's Day, the Philadelphia Mummers march in a very entertaining, colorful parade (http://www.phillymummers.com/index.php).

David created a Mummer themed wedding for his bride which ultimately consisted of many, many feathers - looking like several different colored Big Birds exploded all over the reception venue (http://www.wetv.com/photo-galleries/my-fair-wedding-jamie/a-cake-of-feathers.html). However, at least he made his client happy!

Bridal Beauty Continued

2010-01-31T13:20:00.000-08:00

I visited the Woodhouse Day Spa (http://www.montclair.woodhousespas.com/)in Montclair, New Jersey. Based on the criteria that I outlined in the Spa Evaluation post (http://eventsbydanyelle.blogspot.com/2009/11/spa-evaluation.html). Here is my assessment:

1) The Dressing Room Area

Is there sufficient space to get changed and not bump into a neighbor?

The changing area was small. The lady that led us into the treatment area did make sure that she set us up in changing rooms so not having space to change in the larger changing area was not an issue.

Are the showers/steam area nice, clean and relaxing? Is the shampoo/condition/body wash in the showers luxurious?

I did not utilize the shower facility so I cannot comment on this criteria.

Are there sufficient additional amenities in the dressing room area? (i.e. hair spray, mouth wash, hair dryer, razor, make up remover) The more the better!

The changing area did lack additional amenities. There was only one mirror/sink space which didn't allow for much room to freshen up after a treatment.

2) The Snacks - Is there a nice variety of fruit, muffins, etc? The more the better!

In the waiting area, there was only one bowl that contained granola bars.

What beverages are available - flavored waters, tea, juice? Again, the more the better!

They offered, water with lemon, ice tea and hot tea.

3) The Waiting Area once you are in your Spa robe and slippers: Is there sufficient space to sit and relax in your own space? Is it well lit? (I personally prefer a moderately well lit area. Some spas have waiting areas that are so dark that you can't even see your friend if you are enjoying a spa day together.

There was adequate seating and the waiting area was lit well so you see the other folks in the room. There was a couch, seats at small tables and chairs flanking tables.

4) The Treatment - Typically during or after facials, the aesthetician attempts to sell you products that they used on you during the service. I hate this! I do not want to be sold too, especially if I have visited a spa while on vacation. In my eyes, a spa ranks higher when they don't try to sell me anything. If I like a product, I'll ask about it. Another way for a facial treatment to lose points is if the aesthetician leaves the room during the treatment. If they leave, this usually occurs after they have applied a mask. I think this is lazy! The good aestheticians provide neck, scalp, hand or foot massages during this time.

I had the 50 minute soothing facial. My dry, winterized skin definitely needed some soothing! After I disrobed and hopped into the warm bed, my aesthetician had a look at my skin. She was able to quickly identify the problem areas (dryness in some spots, oil in others, clogged pores) and how the treatment would help. After the consultation, the facial treatment began with a relaxation ritual which included a head and neck massage to start the relaxation. After that, my skin was cleansed. In order to remove cleansing products, she wrapped a warm wash cloth around my face and then gently wiped the product off. The facial also included steam, extractions a mask and a great hand massage while the mask was moisturizing and balancing my skin. The treatment also ended with the relaxation ritual. The total treatment was bliss!

5) Overall Spa Experience
During the entire visit you should feel welcomed, well taken care of and truly relaxed.

The overall spa experience was great. The entire staff is friendly, welcoming and caring. The treatment was superb. The only minuses to the spa are the small changing area and limited refreshment options. I will definitely return to the Woodhouse Spa for another facial!

Adventure Aquarium, The Waterfront in Camden, NJ

2010-01-31T13:03:00.000-08:00

I visited another Philadelphia area venue with my client (let's call him Mr. Pen) - Adventure Aquarium (http://www.adventureaquarium.com/). The aquarium is located on the waterfront in Camden, NJ with spectacular views of Philadelphia.

For the 200-250 person event that we're planning we walked through the Ocean Realm and Carribbean Currents. The space is filled with ocean light illuminated with lovely aquarium lighting. The winding, cavernous are will serve as the setting for drinks and cocktails.

We then were led into Rotunda where a large, spiral fish mobile was in the center, highlighting a perfect dance floor location. There is also Touch-A-Shark area where the guests will be able to interact with sea life and have access to an aquarium guide to answer questions during their interactive experience.

There are spectacular views of the river and Philadelphia from this space.

Another option for wedding and events is the Currents Ballroom (http://www.currentsballroom.com/) which is also located at the Adventure Aquarium. The far side walls of the ballroom is a floor to ceiling aquarium filled with ocean life. This is an elegant space which the right aquarium touch for your wedding or event!

At this point in the venue selection process, Mr. Pen likes the Adventure Aquarium more than the Franklin Institute.

I'll keep you posted on the final selection!

The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia, PA

2010-01-23T20:04:00.000-08:00

The Franklin Hall within the Franklin Institute is amazing. The vast marble space, lighting capabilities, audio-visual technology and gigantic marble Ben Franklin are fantastic.

There were also several exhibits and other spaces such as the planetarium that could also be open during party time (but of course for an additional fee).

As a planner, the number one question to always ask - "Is my client happy; does it meet their needs?"

Leaving the Franklin Institute, my client had a few questions/concerns making me feel that it was not "the one," so we'll keep looking :)

Kleinfeld's Anniversary Blow Out Sample Sale!

2010-01-23T07:53:00.000-08:00

Ladies- if you're still searching for that perfect dress try Kleinfeld Bridal! Also, you won't find better prices on the best gowns than during a sample sale.

The next sale is on Tuesday, February 2, 2010 @ 3:00 PM - Door close at 7:00 PM. Get there early so you can get in line! Bridal Gowns starting at $499 and up.Save up to 70% on select sample bridal gowns, headpieces, veils and accessories from top bridal designers at Kleinfeld's Blow Out Sample Sale!

Members of the theknot.com also receive an additional 35% off!

Best Wishes finding your dream dress!

Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings

2010-01-17T08:58:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, I saw a beautiful bride pose for photos in the foyer of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and I wanted to remind all of the couples that a great wedding day option is Disney World!

From the website (http://disneyweddings.disney.go.com/weddings) you can view all of the amazing ceremony locations, reception locations and packages that Disney has to offer. With the use of the Design Studio and the calculator you can get a great idea of the items and services that you are selecting for your wedding. You can also comfortably create you budget from your home computer with the wedding calculator from the website. Also, a Disney Wedding Specialist is only a phone call away to answer all of your questions.

With a Disney wedding you are guaranteed the meticulous attention to detail and quality that is found in every Disney resort, restaurant and theme park.

As a bonus you also get the Disney magic and can balance "Mickey Mouse" with timeless, classic wedding elements.

Just another idea as you plan for your big day!

Happy Planning!

Surprise Party!

2010-01-12T15:04:00.000-08:00

Events By Danyelle planned a surprise birthday party that was held in December at the Highlawn Pavilion (http://www.highlawn.com/) in West Orange, NJ. The floral centerpieces, crystal tree, candy buffet and place cards were also all custom created by Events By Danyelle. The guest of honor was truly surprised and a great evening was enjoyed by all! Please enjoy the photography by Dave Elliot (http://www.daveelliottproductions.com/) below.

Crystal Tree Centerpieces – Do It Yourself

2009-12-19T20:32:00.000-08:00

Crystal Tree Centerpieces – Do It Yourself

Here is a step by step guide to create your very own crystal tree for your wedding like the one used in the candy table. I have also included pricing and information on where to purchase all of the supplies!

Japanese Mitsumata Branches Bleached – 48” Tall – 3 Branches
Cost: $6.80/3 branches; Where to Buy: http://www.save-on-crafts.com/

1 cylindrical glass vase (12” tall and 5” diameter with glass that is ¼” thick)
Cost: $9.99-$19.99; Where to Buy: http://www.save-on-crafts.com/ or your local craft store

River Rocks Polished White and Light Grey (2 lbs.)
Cost: $2.39; Where to Buy: http://www.save-on-crafts.com/

White Standard Floralytes Wireless LED Light - 1 pack with 10 lights
Cost: $25; Where to Buy: http://www.save-on-crafts.com/

Faux Cymbidium Orchid Cost: $19.99-$49.99
Where to Buy: Amazon.com

16 mm 63" Ethereal Brand Quality Lead Free Crystal One Foot Rope
Quantity: 15
Cost: $4.05/rope; Where to Buy: http://www.etherealdecor.com/

16mm - .63" Swarovski Premium Lead Free Crystal One Foot
Quantity: 10; Cost: $6.99/rope ; Where to Buy: http://www.etherealdecor.com/

20mm - .79" Swarovski Premium Lead Free Crystal Loose Octagons
1 pack of 60 pieces
Cost: $34.00; Where to Buy: http://www.etherealdecor.com/
Filament/Clear Beading Wire
Cost: $5.99; Where to Buy: local craft store

Straight Pins
Cost: $1.99; Where to Buy: local craft store

Floral Wire 110 ft
Cost: $1.19; Where to Buy: www.save-on-crafts.com

The centerpiece can be made several days (even weeks) prior to your wedding. Utilizing the faux orchids provides the look of real flowers but you don’t have to worry about the flowers wilting.

Step 1: Soak the Mitsumata in water for about 3 hours. Soaking the branches helps make them pliable. When the crystals are hung, this will open up the arrangement.

The bath tub is a great place to soak the branches. In order to ensure that the branches are submerged, I recommend grabbing a bath towel, soak it in the water, and then place it over the branches.

Prior to making the centerpiece, I had read accounts of branches that had been soaked growing mold. In order to try to mitigate this, I added about ¼ c. of bleach to the water in order to kill any organisms that may be present. The white branches are already bleached, so if you would choose to use a natural branch instead, you may not want to add the bleach or experiment with a single branch in the bleach water prior to soaking all of them so you don’t get white spots or white branches if you don’t want them.

Step 2: Remove the branches from the water. Lightly dry them with a towel.

Step 3: Arrange branches to place in vase. I like to take the base of the branches and tie them together with duct tape and plastic cable ties (See Figure 1. below). This will ensure that they are arranged firmly in a manner that you like and will not move.

Figure 1. Secured branches.

Step 4: Take the assembled branches and place in the vase. Add the river rocks to secure the arrangement (See Figure 2. below). Fill will rock (at least 9 inches of the 12 inches) of the vase to ensure that branches are secure.

Figure 2. Fill with rocks.

Step 5: Decorate the branches.

Pin the orchids to the branches. The straight pins will easily go through the faux orchids and the pliable branches.
Hang crystal ropes. I have purchased both Etheral Brand crystal ropes and Swarovski crystal ropes. The Etheral brand is less expensive and I can’t tell the difference. The tree below has 25 – 1 foot ropes with the size 16 mm crystals in the chain. Each crystal in the chain is approximately the size of a dime with each chain containing 13 crystals. The length of the chain can easily be adjusted by connecting additional crystals or removing them. Hang each chain to the tree with the floral wire or filament.
Hang loose crystals. Hang a single crystal on a single strand of filament and tie onto the tree branch.
Add lighting. Use floral wire or cable ties to attach the floralyte to the branches. Hide the lights behind the orchids. You can also hang candles from the tree or illuminate the base with candles or lights.

Step 6: Set your arrangement up at your wedding and enjoy!

New "Events By Danyelle" Website

2009-11-10T17:40:00.000-08:00

Check out my redesigned website: http://www.eventsbydanyelle.com

Make sure you refresh your browser so you are viewing the new site!

Spa Evaluation

2009-11-08T17:25:00.000-08:00

Just a follow up to how I chose the spas in the Bridal Beauty post. I have experienced spas all over the world and here are the categories that I judge them on:

1) The Dressing Room Area

Is there sufficient space to get changed and not bump into a neighbor?
Are the showers/steam area nice, clean and relaxing?
Is the shampoo/condition/body wash in the showers luxorious?
Are there sufficient additional amenities in the dressing room area? (i.e. hair spray, mouth wash, hair dryer, razor, make up remover) The more the better!

2) The Snacks

Is there a nice variety of fruit, muffins, etc? The more the better!
What beverages are available - flavored waters, tea, juice? Again, the more the better!

3) The Waiting Area once you are in your Spa robe and slippers:

Is there sufficient space to sit and relax in your own space?
Is it well lit? (I personally prefer a moderately well lit area. Some spas have waiting areas that are so dark that you can't even see your friend if you are enjoying a spa day together.

4) The Treatment

Typically during or after facials, the aesthetician trys to sell you products that they used on you during the service. I hate this! I do not want to be sold too, especially if I have visited a spa while on vacation. In my eyes, a spa ranks higher when they don't try to sell me anything. If I like a product, I'll ask about it.
Another way for a facial treatment to lose points is if the aesthetician leaves the room during the treatment. If they leave, this usually occurs after they have applied a mask. I think this is lazy! The good aestheticians provide neck, scalp, hand or foot massages during this time.

5) Overall Spa Experience

During the entire visit you should feel welcomed, well taken care of and truly relaxed.

Bridal Beauty

2009-11-07T16:34:00.001-08:00

As you prepare to look and feel your best on wedding day, many brides head to the spa for some pampering. My favorite spas in New Jersey are:

1) DePasquale Spa (www.depasqualethespa.com). The spa is located in Morris Plains, NJ. Every experience begins with being asked if you would like a coffee or cappuccino from their coffee bar which is a great treat for the java fan.

For ultimate relaxation during the months that you are preparing for your wedding, I would recommend a European Body Massage and a Pedicure. For all of your final wedding beauty touches, try their waxing services and a shampoo, cut and style.

2) The Fountain Spa (www.thefountainspa.com). The spa has two locations one in Ramsey, NJ and Hackensack, NJ (in The Shops at Riverside). I personally have visited the Hackensack location. For a glowing complexion try the Rebalancing Facial. This facial is great since you receive the ultimate facial massage, neck massage and they also massage your hands and feet! Your skin is left cleansed, moisturized and radiant!

Masters of Reception

2009-11-07T15:29:00.000-08:00

From the Comcast On Demand menu, I selected the first episode of TLC's new show - Masters of Reception ( http://tlc.discovery.com/tv/masters-of-reception/masters-of-reception.html).

The show follows the behind the scenes efforts of the Frungillo Caterers staff as they prepare for weddings. The receptions are held at one of the four Frungillo Caterers (http://www.frungillo.com/) elegant banquest facilities that are located in New Jersey.

On the first episode, the Frungillo brothers and staff went the extra mile to accommodate special requests from the wedding couples such as finding sweets from the Dominican Republic for a Candy Buffet and Diablo Conjuelos dancers (colorful Dominican carnival performers).

My inital reaction was true surprise/disbelief. I was very impressed that the reception venue staff would help make the dreams come alive for couples on their wedding days. I was a bit skeptical that the super service was for the cameras but as I watched subsequent episodes I got a sense that the Frungillo brothers and their staff really, really care about making the wedding day special for every bride and groom that comes through their doors.

Way to go! You truly are Masters of Reception and Masters of making a wedding day special!

Signature Drink

2009-10-17T17:14:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to share with you a recipe for a signature drink, the "Cable Car," which was extremely popular at a recent wedding.

Cable Car
1/2 oz. Orange Curacao Liqueur
1 oz. Spiced Rum
1/2 oz. Lime Juice
1/2 oz. Sweet & Sour Mix

Combine everything in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. The glass should be rimmed with sugar and cinnamon.

Try it at home!

Vendor of the Week - DB Custom Design

2009-10-13T16:31:00.000-07:00

Last week I had the pleasure of meeting with Dana, the owner of db designs (http://www.dbcustomdesign.com/). Dana offers custom save-the-dates, invitations, escort cards and table names. Her portfolio is amazing! She prides herself on being able to create a unique design for each couple that she works with.

Wedding Gift Idea

2009-10-11T13:14:00.000-07:00

If you are planning on giving your groom a gift on wedding day, one of the best gifts is an elegant album of photos of you at your sexiest! For your wedding day, brides tend to get into the best shape of their lives and look their best. Why not also commemorate your wedding with a classy yet hot pictorial? I guarantee that you and your husband-to-be will love it. In the industry, this is known as a "Boudoir" shoot.

My favorite photographers for this are Darah & Siobhan of Dollface Studio in Philadelphia, PA.

First, they are two women that will be taking the photos so you can feel super comfortable in your lingerie when you are with them. Next, they will make your hair and make up look amazing right in their studio. The photo shoot will be fun and they will get amazing pictures from you! The album is beautifully assembled and your groom will be shocked and forever grateful (P.S. Your photos will only be posted to their online gallery if you want them there.).

Check out the Boudoir Gallery on their website: http://www.dollfacestudio.com/

Hen-Party!

2009-10-11T12:23:00.000-07:00

When my husband was away on business in Ireland he picked up a copy of "B Wedding Magazine." One of the interesting trends that I found in the magazine that was different than in the U.S. was the "Hen-Party."

The Hen-Party in Ireland is most similar to the U.S. "Bachelorette Party." Bring some culture to the bride-to-be (and not just strippers) and throw her a Hen Party!

A Hen-Party is the Brides last night out as a single woman with all her friends! Its usually a night away with games, dancing and general girlie bonding.

A Hen-Party is made up of 5 key areas:

1) An Activity - most hen parties have an afternoon activity so everyone can get to know each other. Paintball, karting, painting are but to mention a few.

2) A Meal - this is where the fun starts! Organize a meal in a nice restaurant for the hen with all the girls around the table.

3) Hen-Party Games - played before, during and after the meal these are the way to get the gang laughing

4) Dancing/Disco - After the meal, the group goes onto the pub and eventually onto a night club or late night bar.

5) Hotel/Night away - Most hens are held away from the Brides home town. So the norm is a night or two away in a nice hotel or self catering park somewhere in Ireland or abroad for the very brave.

For more information Hen-parties visit: http://www.hen-party.ie/

Keep Events By Danyelle in mind to help you plan your Hen-party in the U.S.!

Vendor of the Week

2009-10-04T12:23:00.000-07:00

Every week I plan to recommend my favorite vendors to you! For my first recommendation I have chosen:

Aster Photographic Elegance (http://www.asterphoto.com/index.html).

Aster and his assistant shot my April wedding. They did an amazing job and provided us with over 1,500 proofs. During the day, they were fun to work with and were hardly noticed by the guests.

The albums that they offer are beautiful and you get to work with Aster's lovely wife, Thaya, to pick your favorites and create an album for you and your family to enjoy forever!

Thank You Cards

2009-09-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

The Thank You Card writing process can be made simpler by doing the following steps:

Prior to Wedding Day

Order your thank you cards.
Send thank you cards to guests that send a gift prior to your wedding and will not be attending.

The Day After Your Wedding Day (or when you open gifts)

As you open your gifts, maintain a detailed list of the gift and the person that gave it to you. I recommend maintaining a single Microsoft Excel Worksheet. This worksheet should list each guest's name separately and their address. Use this sheet to record whether or not they are attending your wedding then to record the gift that was given. All info is in a single place and you won't forget to thank anyone!

One Week After You Return From Your Honeymoon

Divide and Conquer - Divide the list into two parts, each of you having to write about 1/2 of the notes. Sit with your husband as you write the notes to discuss the guest and gift but each of you write your own dedicated notes, signing the note with both of your names.
Export your Microsoft Excel Worksheet to a Microsoft Word Mailing Label Document. You can make elegant labels and print them from your home printer. Also print the return address labels. My favorite labels are the clear Avery Labels Template 5160 - they don't smudge!
Postage - I recommend stamping with postage that matched your wedding stationary postage. This can be ordered ahead of time when you are ordering and preparing your invitations.
Remember to send thank you notes to vendors that provided you with excellent service. They appreciate it!

In New Jersey, it is customary (i.e. expected) that you send a thank you card with your (Bride & Groom) picture on it thus you can't order these prior to wedding day. For the picture, you could utilize an engagement photo or utilize a shot that a friend snapped on the day of your wedding. Waiting for the photographer to get you a proof could take weeks or months and prolong the thank you card writing process.

Changing Your Last Name

2009-09-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

I wanted to provide you with some helpful tips regarding changing your last name since I encountered issues for several months after I was married. Once you get married and have the official marriage certificate, there are several instances where you will need to provide the certificate in order to update your name, including:

Social Security Card
Passport
Bank Account(s) / ATM cards
Credit Card (s)
Work Email Accounts/HR Related Items (401k, beneficiary of life insurance, etc.)
Membership Reward Programs including airline frequent flyer programs.

Tip: Ensure all honeymoon travel is booked under your maiden name and do not change any proof of identity documents (driver's license or passport) required for travel prior to you departing for your trips.

A Story from Danyelle

I had purchased airline tickets to the Bahamas prior to getting married and changing my last name (The tickets were for a trip several months after our wedding & honeymoon).

After I changed my name, I emailed the airline (Continental) a pdf of my marriage certificate so they could update my Onepass account with my new name. I also asked if I could update the last name on itineraries that I had already booked but not yet completed the travel. I was told that they could not issue a new ticket (even though everything is electronic) with my new last name but I would have no issues completing my travel.

A few months later, I arrived at the Newark Airport to check in for my flight. The ticket says "Danyelle Sinclair" while my passport says "Danyelle Stewart". Planning ahead, I also have my old passport and old driver's license that have my maiden name on them. Even after providing the old documentation, the ticketing agent told me that I was going to get deported from the Bahamas since my ticket and passport did not match and that I should have brought my marriage certificate with me in order to verify myself. As I was trying to remain calm (it was 5:30 AM and I had been up since 4:00 AM), I was thinking the following to myself:

1) I am not carrying my 8 1/2" X 11" marriage certificate with me where ever I go, especially on vacation. 2) Why couldn't the airline issue me a new ticket when I contacted them weeks prior to my vacation? 3) Showing her my old ID with my photo and my maiden on it and the new ID with my photo and my married name on it is better proof of identity than a piece of paper with no photo on it.

Anyways, I was ultimately permitted to get on the plane and had a fabulous trip to the Bahamas.

Tips:

1) Ensure the last name on your honeymoon tickets and proof of identity documents (driver's license or passport) are the same.

2) Try to not make any future travel arrangements until you can ensure that you will be ticketed with the same last name as your proof of identity documents show.

Happy Post Wedding Travels!

Joey 1st Birthday Party!

2009-09-13T15:18:00.000-07:00

"Events By Danyelle" had the pleasure of working with the Andicoechea family to create a great first birthday party for their son, Joey. The party was held at Redd's Restaurant in Carlstadt, NJ. The theme was a throwback baseball theme combined with a fun birthday party atmosphere. The kids wore their baseball jerseys, ate popcorn and cotton candy and enjoyed sundaes from baseball helmets. The centerpieces consisted of handmade baseball fields, baseballs, gloves, penants and peanuts & cracker jacks. A face painter and magician (from Horizon Entertainment) kept the kids totally entertained. A great time was had by all. Congratulations Joey on turning 1! Let's Play Ball!

Finding Your Dress

2009-09-10T11:49:00.000-07:00

One of the most important (and probably most difficult) decisions in the wedding planning process is picking your wedding gown. This guide is to help you minimize the challenge by preparing, planning and attacking the task with insight.

Step 1: Prepare for the Bridal Shops

Browse bridal magazines and website to gain a feeling for the style and type of dress that you like. One of the best sites to do this is http://www.kleinfeldbridal.com/. The site allows you to specify designers, silhouette, neckline, wasteline, price and even sleeve length then produces images of several dresses that meet your criteria.

Limit your daily dress shopping prepartion to 30 minutes. Tear out pictures from magazines and print the dresses that you like from the website. Organize in a folder or a binder.

Step 2: Visit the Bridal Boutiques

Once you have an idea of the type of dress that you want, it's time to hit the stores. Three (3) trips will be used to find your dress.

Trip 1: Select 2 bridal shops to visit. I recommend limiting the number of shops to 2 in each trip since the too many options often leads to more indecision. Base your 2 bridal shop selection on the following criteria:

1) Do they carry dresses by the designer(s) that you like?
2) What is the price range of the dresses in the store?
3) Think of stores that you may have visited with a friend in the past or from recommendations from other former brides.
4) These can be stores that are local.

Call the stores prior to visiting them to ask these questions. Also, if there is a specific dress style by a specific designer ask if they have that sample so you can try it on. Modify your store selection if they do not have a dress that you have to try on. Make the appointments.

Who to Take: Your maid of honor or bridesmaid. Limit this trip to no more than 2 friends.

Have the sales associate write down designer, style names and prices of your favorites. Feel no pressure to buy. Enjoy the day!

When you return home, try to find images online or in magazines of your favorite dresses that you tried on and file the pictures in your folder or binder.

Trip 2: Select 2 bridal shops to visit. One of the shops can be a store that you already visited but these shops should be the ones that you think you are most likely to purchase a dress from. My favorite stores in NJ and NY are:

Bridal Elegance in West Orange, NJ. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful.
The Bridal Atelier - Mark Ingram in NYC. The selection is amazing and the staff is so knowledgable and pleasurable to work with.

Prior to selecting the stores also ensure that you have considered questions 1) and 2) above.

Who to Take: Your maid of honor or bridesmaid. Limit this trip to no more than 2 friends. Too many opinions can make it difficult for you to truly determine how you feel in a dress.

Trip 3: Time to Buy! You should have a very good idea of what dress you want. Again, select 2 stores. Both stores can be ones that have gowns that you've already tried and truly like. You should be trying on the dresses that you think are "the ones" and limit any new styles. (Also, if you don't cry in your dress it doesn't mean that it can't be the one.)

You may also visit a new store that you know carries the styles of dresses that you make like. An excellent store to visit when you are serious about buying is Kleinfeld Bridal in NYC.

If you are still not sure if you have found "the dress" repeat Trip 2 until you are fairly certain that you have it down to a dress or two.

Who to Take: Your Mom.

Step 4: Choose and place a deposit on your dress.

Step 5: Stop looking at bridal gowns in magazines, online, in stores, etc.

You will drive yourself crazy looking at newer and different styles. Don't second guess how you felt in the dress when you picked it. If you are having cold feet about your dress, visit the bridal shop to try your dress on again. Another approach that I used was I visited a department store where no appointment was required and tried on a few dresses. This helped me know that I made the right choice already.

Even though this is a big decision...relax! I guarantee that no matter what dress you choose, you will feel your best and most beautiful on wedding day.

The Bride's Bill of Rights

2009-09-01T21:41:00.000-07:00

Brides have it tough. The expectation from family, friends and wedding service providers is not if the bride will become a "Bridezilla" but when will she become one or have a "Bridezilla" moment or two. As a planner that loves all Brides, I believe that this is very unfair. The rights of the Bride must be clearly spelled out and then everyone can calibrate their expectations appropriately. Here are three (3) rights:

Right 1: You have the "final say".
Right Way: Brides - Have your final say but ensure that the way you say your "final say" is in a nice, polite, direct way. As a Bride, you may delegate your "final say" (i.e. letting your bridesmaids choose the fit of gown that is best for them), however, you still have the "final say" that you are delegating your "final say". The "final say" is limited to issues that you legitimately have a choice in such as the venue or ceremony musicians. The "final say" does not apply to asking your bridesmaids to lose or gain weight or to cut or dye their hair to match their bouquets.

Right 2: Smile.
Right Way: Brides - this is one of the best times in your life. Enjoy and embrace every moment. Even if your cake is falling over at your reception, smile. Even if your band leader needs directions (even though you emailed them three times already), smile. Even if your maid of honor is crying because her boyfriend just broke up with her at your reception, smile. (I know that the last one may be hard to smile at so ensure to call in your wedding planner and/or mom to help soothe the situation).

Right 3: Be gracious.
Right Way: Brides - thank all of your vendors, bridal party members, family and everyone involved in the wedding process. Don't just thank them at the end; thank them throughout the planning process. They will truly feel appreciated and can more easily forgive any "Bridezilla" or "Diva" like moments that may slip out, and will still like you.

Hopefully everyone is now clear on how a Bride will behave as she goes from an engaged gal to a married woman!

Summer Smash!

2009-08-24T15:55:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to take a moment to post a picture from last Saturday. The event was an amazing summer party for over 100 guests at a private home in western Pennsylvania. The eating, drinking and dancing went on past 2:00 AM! The fun color scheme was based on watermelons. The theme was incorportated through the invitations, hot pink linens and even sugar cookies in the shape of watermelon slices.

Why You Need Events By Danyelle for Your Wedding

2009-08-18T18:46:00.000-07:00

This is a very exciting time in the life of an engaged couple so you must enjoy every moment. Even if you are couple that has all the details put together, I guarantee that having a planner on your team for the last few weeks and days leading up to the wedding will make the event much more enjoyable for you both. A planner will embrace your wedding day vision and will not only eliminate all the wedding day stress but also ensure everything goes perfectly. The planner can take care of all of stuff that can't be done until the week of your wedding such as deliver welcome bags, contact all the vendors, set up the wedding sites...the list goes on. Contact Danyelle to help make your wedding process a breeze!

Have a Rain Plan

2009-08-17T19:27:00.000-07:00

If you're having an outdoor ceremony and/or reception ensure that you and your planner have briefly discussed a game plan for moving the festivities indoors. Some key items to chat about include identifying the alternate indoor location, how all of your details from the outside will be brought inside and best used indoors and when the decision will be made to move inside (i.e. one hour before ceremony start time or four hours). Having at least thought about this prior to the big day will lessen the disappointment of having to move indoors and give you a clearer vision of your new event space.

Welcome!

2009-08-11T12:23:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our new blog! Here I plan to keep you updated with the exciting events that we are planning and to help brides by providing tips for planning that special day. Check back often. Happy planning!